Tag Archive for: Politics

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) introduced the End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act to establish a dedicated federal funding stream to help multi-jurisdictional drug task forces (MJTFs) combat opioid trafficking in Washington state and across the country.

The End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act would:

  • Expand and formalize an existing DOJ initiative, the COPS Anti-Heroin Task Force program, to fund MJTFs to target opioid trafficking.
  • Help law enforcement expand partnerships across federal, state, Tribal, and local agencies to address opioid trafficking.
  • Allow funds to be used to create or expand existing MJTFs, hire and train law enforcement offices and other support employees, procure equipment, technology, support systems, and pay overtime.
  • Require 20 percent of funding to be set aside for Tribes and 20 percent to be made directly available to MJTFs. 
  • Double funding historically provided to the COPS Anti-Heroin Task Force program to address opioid trafficking. 
  • Provide technical assistance, including through training centers and facilities, to help instruct law enforcement on best practices for combating opioid trafficking.

“We have to end the deadly flow of fentanyl into our communities before it takes more of our loved ones and neighbors from us, and we need all of the law enforcement talent possible at the table,” Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m introducing this legislation to dedicate federal funds to multi-jurisdictional task forces and expand partnerships and training – because when law enforcement agencies can coordinate regionally, they can more effectively fight fentanyl trafficking.”

“The opioid epidemic has devastated Northwest Washington,” said Larsen.“Members of local, state and Tribal law enforcement have told me they often lack the funding and resources to stem the flow of opioids and fentanyl that harm the communities they serve. This bill invests in and empowers multi-jurisdictional task forces to get more opioids and fentanyl off our streets – a critical investment that will protect Northwest Washington communities and save lives.” 

In Washington state and around the country, law enforcement agencies partner across jurisdictions to form task forces that coordinate information, resources, and staff to target the illegal distribution of drugs at the local and regional levels. Washington state currently has 16 active MJTFs. 

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) program is the leading source of federal justice funding for states, Tribes, and local governments supporting a range of criminal legal system improvement and community advancement initiatives, including MJTFs.

Last year, Reps. Gluesenkamp Perez and Larsen, along with other members of the Washington Delegation urged the Governor to continue to support the important work of MJTFs fighting fentanyl trafficking. The Congresswoman also supports increased funding for the Byrne JAG and COPS grants local law enforcement departments rely on.

Gluesenkamp Perez is working to fight the flow of fentanyl across our Southern Border that is making the work of first responders more difficult. She cosponsored the FEND Off Fentanyl and END FENTANYL Acts in the House, which are now law to target fentanyl traffickers and fight fentanyl smuggling at ports of entry.

Gluesenkamp Perez, along with her bipartisan colleagues, introduced the Invest to Protect Act to help police departments access funding for training, hiring and retention; introduced the Streamlining Federal Grants Act to make it easier for small, rural departments to apply for resources; and helped introduce legislation to support training and recruitment grants and expand access for rural communities.

A one-page summary of the legislation is available here.

“The National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition commends Representatives Larsen and Gluesenkamp Perez for their work and introduction of the End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act. Greater investment in resources for drug enforcement efforts – particularly multi-jurisdictional drug task forces – is needed to counter the alarming trend of drug poisoning,” said Eric Brown, president of the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC). “Multi-jurisdictional drug task forces have generated best practices in information sharing, case deconfliction, and institutional coordination against local and regional drug threats. Given the diversification of Byrne JAG funding for purposes other than multi-jurisdictional drug task forces in some states, this legislation will provide much needed dedicated funding to address the drug poisoning epidemics in our communities.”

“The Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) applauds Representatives Larsen and Gluesenkamp Perez for their efforts to combat the fentanyl epidemic and for advocating for essential resources to support our mission of protecting communities across the nation,” said MCSA Executive Director Megan Noland.“The End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act would provide law enforcement with critical tools to target drug traffickers and prevent fentanyl from entering our communities. We appreciate that the bill would provide dedicated resources to support local multi-jurisdictional drug task forces.” 

“Drug trafficking has brought tremendous harm to Washingtonians as such, the Washington State Narcotics Investigators Association enthusiastically endorses Representative Larsen’s efforts to strengthen partnerships and cooperation between federal and local agencies to save lives and prevent more devastation by addressing opioid trafficking in Washington State. His proposals in Congress represent the balance needed to positively impact lives and livelihoods of those in our state devastated by illicit drug trafficking,” said WSNIA President Chris Foreman. “We urge Congress to pass the End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act immediately to provide crucial resources to our communities throughout the Pacific Northwest. Failure to do so will cost more lives and devastation caused by overdoses and opioid use disorder, and street crimes in our neighborhoods.”

Vancouver, WA —The Building Industry Group PAC (BIG PAC) has announced its endorsements for the 2024 general election, following a thorough vetting process of candidates based on questionnaires, voting records, and interviews. These endorsements reflect the PAC’s commitment to housing affordability and policies that support the building industry and small businesses throughout Clark County.

BIG PAC’s endorsements for state legislative races include:

  • Rep. Paul Harris (running for District 17 Senate)
  • Rep. Kevin Waters (District 17, Position 1)
  • David Stuebe (District 17, Position 2)
  • Brad Benton (running for District 18 Senate)
  • Rep. Stephanie McClintock (District 18, Position 1)
  • Sen. John Braun (District 20 Senate)
  • Rep. Peter Abbarno (District 20, Position 1)
  • Rep. Ed Orcutt (District 20, Position 2)
  • Sen. Annette Cleveland (District 49)

For Clark County Council, BIG PAC is endorsing:

  • Chuck Keplar for District 3
  • Matt Little for District 4

Additionally, BIG PAC supports James O’Neil for Clark Public Utilities Commissioner.

The 2024 election cycle is critical for Clark County communities, and BIG PAC urges all registered voters to participate in the general election. The PAC has a long-standing legacy of advocating for policies that support the building industry and address housing concerns.

More information on BIG PAC’s endorsements is available at buildclarkcounty.com.

WASHINGTON, D.C. –This week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez’s (WA-03) bipartisan legislation to rename the Bucoda Post office in honor of the late Mayor Rob Gordon unanimously passed the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

In August, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez introduced the bill with the support of the entire Washington House Delegation, and the Bucoda Town Council passed a motion in support of the effort. This week, the Thurston County Board of Commissioners also wrote a letter in support of the legislation.

Rob Gordon served as Bucoda’s Mayor and Assistant Fire Chief, was a lifelong resident of Southwest Washington, and operated a family haul truck business and ranch. He passed away in June 2024 and is survived by his wife, Miriam, and their two children, Jakob and Anna.

“Rob served the town of Bucoda selflessly and proudly for many years as a firefighter, Assistant Fire Chief, Councilman, and then Mayor. He went above and beyond in all he did to make the town a better place for all of its residents. He wanted to make sure it would once again be a place where children, especially his own Jakob and Anna, could ride bikes and play without worry. He loved this small town and gave so much of himself and time to it,” said Miriam Gordon. “I don’t think anyone would disagree with me in saying Rob became the backbone of this town in the short time he was given. He would never expect anything like this and being the humble man he was, he would shy away from it. However, I know if he was here now he would be extremely honored to have the town’s post office named after him. Jakob, Anna, myself and Rob’s family are very thankful for what everyone has done to honor and remember Rob, especially this. Thank you.”

“Mayor Gordon was the epitome of a servant leader, with an incredible work ethic and impact on our community that cannot be understated. He represents the best of Southwest Washington – serving as a firefighter since the age of 16, maintaining his haul trucks himself, and passing on important skills and values to his children,” said Gluesenkamp Perez. “Rob was tough, fair minded, and always gave people the opportunity to be the best version of themselves. His passing is a true loss for our community, but his life of service and dedication will remain forever. I’m grateful to have had the chance to know and work alongside him – and by renaming Bucoda’s Post Office, we can help preserve his legacy and inspire future generations of leaders. I’m glad we could quickly move this bipartisan bill through committee – and I’ll continue working to make it a reality.”

“As a lifelong volunteer firefighter for the Town of Bucoda, Mayor Gordon served his community and protected the safety of his fellow Bucoda residents. As a town councilmember and then as mayor, he was a strong advocate for his community and fought hard to ensure that the town of 587 people was not forgotten about. As mayor he worked to replace asbestos water pipes to improve the safety of the drinking water, he advocated for tourism opportunity and was a strong supporter of the annual “Boo-coda” event which brought thousands to the town, and he was a fighter for public safety,” wrote the Thurston County Board of Commissioners. “If there is anyone who is worthy of this recognition it is Mayor Gordon. … We cannot wait to see this become a law and Mayor Gordon receive this long-lasting recognition.

Perez

Vancouver, WA — Lacamas Magazine recently interviewed Rep. Paul Harris (R-17th LD) about his current run for the Washington Senate. He’s been in the State House for 14 years.

Question: What are the top reasons you’re running for the State Senate?

Balance of government is super important. Checks and balances are essential to good legislation. In the Senate, we are one vote away from the Democrats having a super majority.

Public safety is a major concern. Homelessness is a big issue. When you go to Fred Meyer, you see guards in their stores.

Fentanyl is a real problem. It ties into homelessness, along with drugs and theft. I sponsored the bill to build a big tent in Vancouver that will house 150 people. It would get them off the street immediately. It would stabilize them, and then move them into another facility. We need that. The city will get it done.  We need to be tough on crime. 

Electrical power is a significant issue. For example, the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) is harming our economy. Affordable power has always been an incentive for big businesses to come to Washington, but this legislation is going to increase the cost of power. Businesses say they came here because Washington has clean, cheap, and affordable power. Businesses are wondering if they can afford to come here now; some are afraid to come here. We are flipping the scale and we are very close to harming businesses. Natural gas is needed to fill the void for a while. 

I really believe the CCA won’t make a significant dent in reducing climate issues. 

Because of the CCA, auto fuel costs Washingtonians about 60 cents to 70 cents more per gallon than in Utah. Locally, it’s really impacting us a lot. It brings up the cost of groceries. 

Question: What are the biggest challenges facing SW Washington voters?

Cost of living. My opponent is a mayor and the mayors belong to the Washington Association of Cities. They want to give the cities the authority to raise property taxes up to 3 percent instead of 1 percent. Property taxes are fairly high in Washington, so I don’t want cities to be able to do that. I will oppose that. It would be disastrous for our taxpayers.

The affordability of a home is outrageous, I don’t want to make it worse for people trying to buy their first home.

Inflation. There are initiatives on the ballot that are trying to repeal bad legislation. 

There are initiatives on the ballot that fix or reverse legislation.  Several of these initiatives will lower costs to consumers.  The main one is the CCA or climate commitment act.  This initiative will roll back prices on natural gas and on gasoline and also help stabilize electrical costs in the future.

We are one of three west coast states that are taxing carbon. Washington State is taxing petroleum/ carbon greater than any other state.  We are paying 41% more for natural gas and about 50 cents to 60 cents more per gallon for gasoline than Idaho or other states not taxing carbon. These added costs affect cost of goods in many ways from shipping to manufacturing to filling your gas tank in car or heating your home. It impacts the poor the most as they can least afford it. Voting yes on the initiative will repeal these taxes on carbon.

I believe this is a Federal issue and needs to be addressed by federal rules and regulations.  The idea that Utah is still burning coal for the next 10 years for 30% of its electricity and we are restricting natural gas highlights that this is a National or global problem and not just ours.

Question: Why should voters elect you?

I think we need balance of government. We do not need another Democrat to be elected. Democrats have controlled this state for 30 years, and I believe we need other minds at the table. Not one party has all the solutions. In 2018, Washington had 48 Republicans, and now we have 40. As a result, we are passing legislation that really isn’t helping people. All the money raised from CCA money is being distributed to government agencies. 

When a Republican loses a seat it doesn’t go to a moderate Democrat, it goes to the fringes. Because of that the worst legislation happens. The CCA is terrible legislation. We need moderate legislators who sincerely tackle issues that impact people the most.

Question: What should voters know about you?

I’m an effective legislator representing this district for 14 years. I seek policies that will help people. I’ve lived in the district for 45 years. I’ve raised my children here. I’ve served on the Evergreen School Board. 

To learn more about the Harris candidacy, visit www.electharris.com

Lacamas Magazine interviewed Terri Niles, a critical care nurse, who is running for Legislative District 17, Position 2, as a Democrat. She answered several questions as she prepares for the General 2024 election.

What are the three top reasons you’re running for the State House?

My lifelong commitment to serving others led me to a 25-year career as a critical care nurse. Now, I’m pursuing public office to extend that service on a broader scale for the people of Southwest Washington. Our region faces complex challenges that demand serious candidates with real-world experience. As a single working mother, I understand the struggles that working families face, including the lack of affordable housing and childcare. I will bring this unique perspective to Olympia, advocating for policies that help people get ahead. Additionally, I will focus on bringing resources to our district, investing in infrastructure, and creating jobs to ensure long-term prosperity for our community.

Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on our community. This crisis significantly contributes to the rise in crime and homelessness, and I understand the urgent need to address these issues with compassion and effective policy. We need legislators with real healthcare experience to work on healthcare legislation. We are facing a crisis in healthcare access, particularly in our rural communities, and a shortage of healthcare workers. I know how to fix these issues, and I’m ready to get to work.

I am committed to supporting businesses and opening the door to good-paying jobs in our district, especially for our small business owners who are the lifeblood of our rural communities. I’ve worked hard during this campaign to listen to their concerns, and I will continue to do so as a legislator. When elected, I will collaborate with business leaders to find ways to increase prosperity for everyone in our district. Every decision and vote I make will be with the best interests of those I represent. I will evaluate every piece of legislation through a non-partisan lens, ensuring that it’s practical and effective for the people in my district.

As a State Representative, I will approach this role by reaching across the aisle, not as an adversary, but as a collaborator. State representative elections are crucial because they directly impact our daily lives, determining how our tax dollars are spent and shaping our community’s priorities. I am committed to putting Southwest Washington first and being our voice in Olympia.

What are the biggest challenges facing Southwest Washington voters?

One of the biggest challenges and concerns I hear from constituents is hyper-partisanship and political polarization. Partisan divisions can make it difficult to find common ground on important issues, leading to gridlock or compromised legislation that may not fully address the needs of our community. Building coalitions and fostering collaboration across party lines is essential but can be challenging in today’s political climate. I bring experience in working across the aisle, having negotiated contracts for my union with people who have very different ideas and desired outcomes. Additionally, I’ve spent 16 years finding common ground with my husband, who is a Republican. I know how to make it work.

Affordability is another major challenge—whether it’s healthcare, housing, or childcare, everything is increasingly out of reach for working families. As a single working mother, I’ve lived these struggles, raising a child while working multiple jobs and often having to choose between paying rent or putting food on the table. These are the same struggles that people across our district face every day, and I’m running to find real, long-term solutions. I want to work to lower costs for working families so they don’t have to experience the hardships I went through, and so life can be better for those struggling to get ahead. That’s why I’m running for office, and why I believe my unique experience and voice are needed in Olympia.

Why should voters elect you?

My platform and priorities focus on issues that resonate deeply with the people in my district, both rural and urban. These are the “kitchen table” concerns that working-class families discuss daily, and they’re the same issues that have come up time and time again in my conversations at the doors. Throughout my career as a nursing leader, I’ve been dedicated to addressing these challenges, such as the lack of accessible childcare, the need for safe working conditions and adequate compensation, and the critical shortage of affordable housing. Additionally, I believe everyone should have the opportunity to retire with dignity and live comfortably in their later years. These are not just priorities for my campaign; they are the core values that have guided my work and will continue to do so as I fight for our community

Please tell us about your background and what should voters know about you.

Growing up with a surgical nurse mother and an aerospace engineer father, I learned the value of hard work, problem-solving, and the belief that nothing is impossible. If my father could put a man on the moon, I believe we can tackle today’s challenges together.

With over 25 years as an ICU nurse and a deep commitment to community service, I’ve dedicated my life to saving lives and supporting families. Being a nurse and making a difference in people’s lives daily has been an honor and has shaped who I am. Now, I’m ready to bring that same caring compassion, commitment, and accountability to Olympia to serve you and our community.

Living in Hawaii as a young adult, I faced high living costs and a lack of affordable housing, which eventually brought me back to the mainland. I never expected to see similar challenges here in Washington. We must work together to make our state affordable and livable for families. My goal is to ensure that everyone can thrive without the burden of excessive costs. I will support policies that address our current affordability crisis, crushing inflationary impacts, lack of affordable housing, and the critical need for childcare and healthcare.

Skyrocketing rent increases are making it difficult for many in our community to afford housing. No one should be forced to live in their cars or on the streets while we remain gridlocked. This isn’t a partisan issue; we must work together to solve it. Rural families face unique challenges, including limited employment opportunities and low-quality housing. We must find solutions to rebuild rural opportunities and support rural communities in our district. Southwest Washington faces a significant shortage of affordable housing, and we need innovative policies to protect and expand affordable housing opportunities for all.

Too many families are working multiple jobs just to make ends meet. We need to build a strong economy by investing in family-wage jobs, affordable childcare, paid sick leave, and family leave. Supporting small and medium-sized businesses through tax cuts and incentives is crucial, especially in rural communities where they are the lifeblood of the economy. We must ensure that everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive in today’s economy.

We need legislators in Olympia who truly understand our healthcare systems and the changes that need to be made. With over 25 years in healthcare, I am that legislator. We are facing a nationwide nursing shortage, and Washington is no exception. As a nurse, I understand what needs to be done and how to implement the changes needed to avert this crisis. Access to healthcare, including reproductive care, will always be among my top priorities. Healthcare needs to be affordable, accessible, and available to all, regardless of zip code or financial status. I will be your healthcare advocate in Olympia, and I am proud to say that I am the only pro-choice candidate in this race.

To learn more about the Niles campaign, visit voteterriniles.com

Washougal, WA — Lacamas Magazine interviewed Washougal Mayor, Dave Stuebe, who is running for Legislative District 17, Position 2, as a Republican. He answered several questions as he prepares for the General 2024 election.

What are the top reasons you’re running for the State House?

I’ve been the mayor of Washougal, and it’s been epic. I’ve loved doing this job and I love the people who do great things for our city. This city is great because of its people. The people here care about their city, and they have a sense of belonging and pride. I’ve been going to Olympia and Washington, D.C., bringing tax dollars home to our city.  

I am excited about what we are accomplishing in this city and I feel I can do so much more. I’m on the CRESA board, Salvation Army board, Safety Board.  I’m just getting more and more involved with what’s going on and how to help Washougal, and our state.

Being in the State House, I can have a bigger role and help out more. Once you’re in service, you’re always in service. I just want to stay involved. Some of the things that concern me are our safety, affordable housing, infrastructure, and having our families thrive.

I really care about our police and our first responders. I want to keep people safe. I want our first responders to know that we back them. They have taken an oath of office to protect and serve, and we are responsible to make sure they’re well trained, well equipped and able to perform their duties. We need to get out of the way and let them do their jobs. 

Affordable housing. Our younger generation has good jobs, but housing is so unaffordable. The average house sold in Washougal costs $800,000. The average home in Camas is $925,000. There has to be something done with that. Not sure I have all the answers, but I will work with subject matter experts to find alternatives that should bring down housing costs, such as reducing red tape in the building process. We can look at alternative forms of housing. I’ll look for different housing opportunities that make sense to our growing population.

Inflation. It affects so many aspects of our lives, and for the younger generation it’s eating up too much of their paycheck toward housing, and that affects the overall quality of living.  I want people to enjoy their lives, and have the freedom to enjoy what America has to offer.

We have to be careful as a country that we don’t get soft, we don’t get lazy. We need to respect the rights and privileges we have. 

What do you want to accomplish at the State House?

I want to focus on the missions and problems we have, bring people together, and get the results to solve our problems. There has been too much fracture in our system.

Let’s bring the subject matter experts together and listen to options for better solutions. That’s what I can do is understand and do a lot of listening and work together with fellow legislators to write some good bills, solve problems, and help our communities. I’m striving to bring people together. 

I’m dedicated to making big things happen.

Why should voters elect you?

Because I’ve served in the Marines for 30 years, retiring as a Colonel. I’ve worked with many organizations, and it has given me a profound education. I’ve learned how to work with many different organizations and governments and service members bringing focus and accomplishment to the mission.

I can immediately gain trust and respect and work toward real results.

What are the things you’re most proud of being a member of the Washougal City Council and Mayor?

I am most proud about bringing together the leadership of this community, and removing hurdles so they can continue to be good stewards of the city. 

I’m really proud of people who bring good energy to serving this community. And, I’m really proud of bringing home tax dollars from Olympia and DC. We come to them with good projects and they understand what our needs are, and we’ve been awarded great things. 

We bring home tax dollars on waste water, downtown renovation, the railway underpass, trails, common use pathway on 27th  Street. We have all these projects happening and I want to continue making this a very friendly, usable city with bike paths, pedestrian paths, and a feeling of general safety and wellness.


I can see and hear a problem and I can delegate, bring people in, clear away the obstacles and find a solution to the problem.

What should voters know about you?

I’m a leader. I work with people to get things done.

Will you stay on as Mayor?

Of course. I’ve made a commitment to this city to represent them as the Mayor, and I’m also able to run for State Representative, and I look forward to doing more for this District. I am able to do both. 

To learn more about Stuebe’s campaign, visit: https://electstuebe.com

VANCOUVER, WA –Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) announced she will be hosting a Service Academy Open House in Clark County.

The event will take place on Monday, September 16, 2024 from 4-5:30 pm at the Vancouver Community Library’s Columbia Room, located at 901 C Street, Vancouver, Washington 98660.

At the event, Southwest Washington high school students and their families will be able to learn more about pursuing a career in our nation’s Armed Forces and meet with representatives from the U.S. Military, Naval, Air Force, and Merchant Marine Academies.

High school juniors, or anyone 17-22 years of age residing in Washington’s Third District, are now able to apply for a service academy nomination from Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez through her website. Completed applications must be submitted by November 12, 2024 and applicants will be scheduled for interviews shortly after.

“One of my most important duties as a Member of Congress is to nominate the next generation of young leaders to our nation’s military service academies. This past cycle, I nominated some truly outstanding students from across Southwest Washington,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m holding this open house for young people to hear about the differences between academies, what makes a strong candidate, and the application process for securing a nomination.”

This will be the Congresswoman’s third Service Academy Open House, and the second held in 2024. Earlier this year, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez nominated students from across Southwest Washington who are now attending service academies.

The Congresswoman’s team always stands ready to support students with the application process. Those with questions not listed in the FAQs are encouraged to reach out online, by phone at (360) 695-6292, or in person at her Vancouver or Kelso offices.

WASHINGTON, D.C. Last week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) introduced a bipartisan Constitutional amendment that would require the President and Congress to deliver balanced budgets every year by preventing the federal government from spending more money than it receives in tax revenue. 

Earlier this month, the United States government’s debt surpassed $35 trillion for the first time in history. Under this amendment, any appropriations legislation that adds to the national debt must pass with a three-fifths majority vote from both the Senate and the House of Representatives. It also requires that the President’s proposed budgets be balanced.

The amendment includes provisions that protect essential safety nets such as Social Security and Medicare payments, as well as maintain existing debt payments to avoid default. 

“As our national debt surpasses $35 trillion and folks across Southwest Washington face the impacts of high costs, our federal government needs to reign in our deficit, balance our budgets, and be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. We haven’t had a balanced budget in more than 20 years, and it’s time for Congress to end this reckless cycle,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Our bipartisan balanced budget amendment will make it harder for the federal government to spend more than it brings in, while protecting vital programs our communities depend on. It’s how we get back on track to cut government waste, reduce our deficit, and avoid passing more debt onto our children.”

“Families across our nation spend within their means and keep a budget, especially during these challenging times. The federal government should also have to maintain a balanced budget,” said Rep. Bacon. “This legislation would require the President’s proposed budgets to be balanced while protecting Social Security and Medicare.”

In May, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez was recognized as a 2024 Fiscal Hero for leading bipartisan efforts to take on the national debt, and she has repeatedly urged her colleagues to work toward fiscal stability. Earlier this year, she introduced the bipartisan Comprehensive Congressional Budget Act to create a more efficient and effective process for Congress to determine our nation’s spending and revenue.

Full text of the amendment is available here.

Vancouver, WA — The Clark County Elections Office released the preliminary results of the August 6, 2024 primary election, and here are the results:

U.S. Representative, District 3

Leslie Lewallen (R): 8,984 12.00%

Joe Kent (R): 25,587 34.18%

John Saulie-Rohman (I): 1,813 2.42%

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D): 38,482 51.40%

Legislative Candidates, District 17

State Senator:

Paul Harris (R): 10,508 49.36%

Marla Keethler (D): 10,782 50.64%

State Representative, Position 1

Kevin Waters (R): 12,890 100.00%

State Representative, Position 2

Hannah Joy (R): 5,080 23.94%

David Stuebe (R): 5,593 26.36%

Terri Niles:(D): 10,548 49.71%

Legislative Candidates, District 18

State Senator:

Greg Cheney (R): 5,505 22.40%

Brad Benton (R): 7,554 30.74%

Adrian Cortes (D): 11,517 46.86%

State Representative, Position 1

Stephanie McClintock (R): 13,317 54.74%

Deken Letinich (D): 11,009 45.26%

State Representative, Position 2

John Ley (R): 9,362 38.28%

Phillip L. Johnson (R): 3,269 13.37%

John Zingale (D): 11,824 48.35%

City of Camas, Prop 4: 

Approved: 3,020 67.71%

Rejected: 1,440 32.29%

This proposition would authorize the City to acquire land and construct and equip a new fire station, renovate an existing fire station and acquire a new fire engine to improve fire safety throughout the City.

Elections Office Audit

The Clark County Elections Office said “Beginning at 10 am Wednesday, Aug. 7, elections officials will perform a hand count of approximately 600 ballots randomly selected as part of a manual comparison against machine results.”

For this comparison, approximately 600 ballots from the 3rd Congressional District race will be counted by hand, to check the accuracy of the ballot tabulation equipment. The selected ballots will be counted in the total returns on Election Day. 

All active registered voters are eligible to vote in this election. If a voter has not received their ballot, they should contact the Elections Office at 564.397.2345 or [email protected]

A voter may download a replacement ballot at VoteWA.gov. Sign in using your name and date of birth. Click “Your Ballot and Voting Materials” and then click “Get a Replacement Ballot.” The voter must print the declaration sheet and ballot and return it by following the instructions.

Vancouver, WA — According to the Clark County Elections Office, if you wish to return your voted ballot in person on or before Election Day take it to:

Clark County Elections Office (1408 Franklin Street, Vancouver), available from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday and 7 am to 8 pm on Election Day.

Or return your voted ballot to one of the 22 red permanent ballot drop boxes, available 24 hours a day starting 18 days before an election until 8 pm on Election Day.

Clark County Locations: 

Vancouver Locations: